Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Tufan Erhurman said social media reports claiming that the Turkish Cypriot man seriously injured in an assault in Ayia Napa had died were false, confirming that he remains alive but in critical condition. The 47-year-old victim remains intubated in hospital.
Confirmation from hospital
In a social media post on Tuesday, Erhurman said he contacted the Turkish Cypriot co-chair of the bicommunal technical committee on health, Durriye Deren Oygar, after the reports began circulating online.
According to Erhurman, Oygar contacted Nicosia general hospital and, after speaking with two separate officials, confirmed that the man was still alive, although his condition remained serious.
Erhurman urged Turkish Cypriots to rely on information issued by the relevant authorities rather than unverified reports circulating on social media.
Political reaction
Political leaders in the north have condemned the attack.
Suspects remanded
The Famagusta district court on Monday remanded four 18-year-old suspects in custody for eight days in connection with the serious assault.
According to police, the suspects were traveling on Swedish passports, while their countries of origin are reported to be Albania, Chile and Iraq. They face charges relating to acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm and causing grievous bodily harm.
The suspects were arrested and taken into custody in the early hours of Monday.
Investigation continues
The Famagusta criminal investigation department is continuing its investigation.
The victim was found seriously injured on a road in Ayia Napa on Sunday morning. He was initially taken to Famagusta general hospital before being transferred to Nicosia general hospital due to the severity of his injuries.